“Theo Bleckmann and his Larynx” is an unlikely title for a YouTube video, let alone one that fascinates both sonically and visually. But it is a suitable introduction to this German-born, New York-based singing marvel, who is equally adept at jazz, new music, yodeling and performing vocal duets with, well, himself.

That he does so in a consistently musical manner, free of flash and frills, makes Bleckmann's performances all the more rewarding. True, he uses looping and other high-tech accoutrements on stage. But where less gifted artists often employ such tools to disguise a lack of ability, Bleckmann's use of looping is done in an artful manner designed to add nuance and dimension to his work.

Bleckmann is able to sing with grace and precision whether inhaling or exhaling (that's where the above-mentioned video about his larnyx comes in), or whether he is singing lyrics or wordlessly. He has collaborated with Bobby McFerrin, Meredith Monk, Laurie Anderson, John Zorn, UCSD bass great Mark Dresser and other contemporary music innovators.

In 2010, he earned a Grammy Award nomination for Best Classical Crossover Album, for his "Twelve Songs by Burl Ives" release. He is currently working with noted percussionist and band leader John Hollenbeck on an album entitled "Hello, Earth! The Music of Kate Bush."

It remains to be seen if his San Diego debut solo concert Friday at the all-ages Loft@UCSD includes any pieces by Ives or Bush. But whatever the repertoire, chances are good it should be a memorable performance. For more on Bleckmann, click here.